Starred Review ALA Booklist (Thu Oct 31 00:00:00 CDT 2024)

Starred Review Reynolds' foray into romance is as spectacular as expected. Standing in front of the bathroom mirror, a nervous Neon is preparing for his first time with his girlfriend, Aria. He's full of (understandable) nerves, and there are sparse details that explain how he got to this point. Following his 24-second pep talk in the mirror, the chapters turn to the past rather than the future. Readers are treated to Neon's past two years by exploring 24 minutes before the moment, 24 days before the moment, and so on. In this format, the reader gradually gets to know Neon, his values, and his family life while better understanding his relationship with Aria. This structure makes for a unique read. Reynolds' ability to introduce characters in reverse and make them compelling is a testament to the author's skill. Readers of his previous works will easily lose themselves in the author's writing and complicated characters. While Neon's relationship with Aria is highlighted during a pivotal point, Reynolds pays tribute to many different kinds of love stories and doesn't shy away from the messiness of love; instead, the author's exploration is grounded in reality. Undoubtedly, a story for everyone.High-Demand Backstory: Jason Reynolds is a household name in the youth literature arena, and that alone will garner this plenty of attention.

Starred Review for Kirkus Reviews (Fri Oct 04 00:00:00 CDT 2024)

Two high school seniors anticipate a big change in their relationshipNeon Benton and Aria Wright have been a couple for two years. They're planning to take a huge step in their relationship, and while they have a plan, Neon is battling a serious case of nerves. Fortunately, he's close to his older sister, Nat, and leans on her for advice. He also finds himself reflecting on the journey that led the two of them to this moment-readers learn of Neon's close ties with his no-nonsense mother, his affectionate, hardworking dad, and his grandmother (who's still grieving the death of his grandfather). Aria's family life is a bit more complicated, since she's the only nonmusical household member, and her relationship with her mother is somewhat strained. Amid family, school, and yearbook club, moving toward more physical intimacy takes center stage for the Black teens. The fact that Aria will be heading away for college while Neon stays home to earn money for film school is another factor. Setting aside anticipation and apprehension, the couple have a bond that is clearly of paramount importance to them. This rich, tender story captures the range of emotions surrounding emerging love and what they mean in the lives of young people. Neon narrates with clarity, sensitivity, and humor. The wonderfully developed cast of characters (both adults and teens), lively language, and the clever flashbacks contribute to the freshness of the storytelling.A warm, heartfelt, and fully engaging portrayal of teen love.(Romance. 14-18)

School Library Journal Starred Review (Tue Oct 01 00:00:00 CDT 2024)

Gr 9 Up— Reynolds is back with his first romance novel, a heartwarming story about first loves and first times, told in reverse. Twenty-four months ago, Neon Benton first laid eyes on Aria Wright, looking fine in her sweatpants, T-shirt, and ponytail, after being chased away from his grandpa's funeral by her dog. Fast forward two years and Neon finds himself locked in Aria's bathroom, stressing about the correct way to open a condom and the intricacies of how to unhook a bra, because 24 seconds from now, they are going to, you know. In between, their relationship unfolds in a series of moments and important conversations. Neon seeks advice from all the important people in his life: his energetic friend Dodie, his older sister Nat, and his caring and up-front parents. The romance of these two Black teenagers is told openly and honestly. Neon takes such care in wanting to do right by Aria. The conversations with his parents are stand-out moments in the story, as Neon navigates his own feelings and the fervor of wanting to do things right. Reynolds has single-handedly set the standard for all young women on the type of guy they deserve. VERDICT A present-day Judy Blume's Forever , this novel has been set up by its author to become a modern classic.— Amanda Harding

Kirkus Reviews

Two high school seniors anticipate a big change in their relationshipNeon Benton and Aria Wright have been a couple for two years. They're planning to take a huge step in their relationship, and while they have a plan, Neon is battling a serious case of nerves. Fortunately, he's close to his older sister, Nat, and leans on her for advice. He also finds himself reflecting on the journey that led the two of them to this moment-readers learn of Neon's close ties with his no-nonsense mother, his affectionate, hardworking dad, and his grandmother (who's still grieving the death of his grandfather). Aria's family life is a bit more complicated, since she's the only nonmusical household member, and her relationship with her mother is somewhat strained. Amid family, school, and yearbook club, moving toward more physical intimacy takes center stage for the Black teens. The fact that Aria will be heading away for college while Neon stays home to earn money for film school is another factor. Setting aside anticipation and apprehension, the couple have a bond that is clearly of paramount importance to them. This rich, tender story captures the range of emotions surrounding emerging love and what they mean in the lives of young people. Neon narrates with clarity, sensitivity, and humor. The wonderfully developed cast of characters (both adults and teens), lively language, and the clever flashbacks contribute to the freshness of the storytelling.A warm, heartfelt, and fully engaging portrayal of teen love.(Romance. 14-18)